Chasing the Northern Lights on the High Seas with Holland America Line

Holland America Line has announced new Arctic Journey & Northern Lights itineraries aboard Rotterdam and Nieuw Statendam, departing between October and November 2026. These 14- and 15-day voyages will take passengers beyond the Arctic Circle, capitalizing on the peak of solar activity, an ideal astronomical condition for Northern Lights sightings that will not recur until at least 2035. The voyage offers a unique observation point free from light pollution directly from the ship’s decks, enhanced by an onboard nighttime wake-up service to alert guests as soon as the phenomenon becomes visible in the sky.

The cruises feature extended and overnight stays of up to 30 or 36 hours in key destinations such as Tromsø and Alta, giving travelers ample time to fully experience the region. On land, it will be possible to immerse oneself in Sámi culture, take reindeer excursions, or participate in guided tours dedicated to “hunting” for the Northern Lights, including mountaintop camps and fjord cruises. The itineraries will depart from Rotterdam and Dover between October 4 and November 7, 2026, offering an unmissable opportunity to tick this natural spectacle off one’s bucket list.